February 17, 2026

Sri Lanka Ends Parliamentary Pensions, Slashes Perks for Former Leaders

Sri Lanka's parliament voted to stop pensions and reduce privileges for ex-leaders immediately, following refusal by ex-president Rajapaksa to vacate a government bungalow.

February 17, 2026

New Mexico Sets Up Truth Commission to Probe Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch Abuse

New Mexico has launched a $2 million truth commission to investigate Jeffrey Epstein’s Zorro Ranch sexual abuse allegations. The panel will use subpoena powers and run until 2026 to uncover what happened and who knew about it, backed by a Deutsche Bank settlement fund.

February 17, 2026

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman Includes 2024 Student Leaders in Cabinet

Tarique Rahman’s new government features two student leaders from the 2024 uprising among first-time ministers as BNP returns to power. Why the choice? Read on.

February 17, 2026

Assam Cabinet Approves 3% Reservation for Tea Tribes in Class I & II Govt Jobs Ahead of Assembly Polls

The Assam Cabinet has approved 3% reservation for tea tribes in Class I and II government jobs and expanded social welfare schemes. The ₹62,294 crore interim budget supports economic growth and empowerment ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections.

February 17, 2026

100 US Soldiers Arrive in Nigeria to Support Fight Against Islamist Militants

Around 100 US soldiers have landed in Nigeria to train the army and share intelligence. They will not fight but help tackle Boko Haram and other groups, says Nigeria's defence spokesperson.